Keep Christmas Cactus Bright

In the Garden - Q&A

December 25, 2002

Question: I just can't seem to keep my Christmas cactus from drooping and then rotting. Don't know if I'm over- or under-watering. Help!

M.L., New Smyrna Beach

Answer: The drooping could be either too much or too little water -- the symptoms are the same. With cactus, I suggest watering thoroughly and then allowing the plant to dry out. An easy way to check is by sticking your finger down about halfway into the soil. If it's very dry, water again. If still moist, recheck in another week. Also, cactus like very bright spots, so be sure it's getting adequate light. Good luck!

Q: Does the extension office offer any classes on living along the coast? I just recently moved to Volusia County and want to learn more about the coastal ecology.

P.A., Edgewater

A: The office will offer a six-week Florida Master Naturalist Coastal Systems class beginning in mid-February. This all-day class will be every Friday for six weeks and includes four classroom sessions and two field trips. There is a cost to attend. Please contact the Volusia County Cooperative Extension Service for more details.

Q: My potted heliconia has curling leaves and looks terrible! It has been well watered with all the rain. What's wrong?

J.R., DeLeon Springs

A: Sounds like it could be a combination of cold nights and a lot of water. Heliconias are truly tropical and start to chill at temperatures below 45 degrees. Move the plant to a warmer, drier location and leave it alone for the winter. When the days get consistently above 75 degrees, move the plant back out to its usual location.

Q: Can I grow star fruit (carambola) here?

J.H., DeBary

A: There are producing carambolas here in west Volusia, but they are planted in protected, warmer locations. Select a spot on the south or east side close to your home. The heat of the house and the little bit of overhang will give the plant some protection.

On most winter nights the plant will do fine, but be prepared for very cold nights. Building a wooden slat structure over and around the plant, wrapping it in clear plastics and adding supplemental heat works well.

Be sure to open the "mini-greenhouse" up during the day to avoid excessive build-up. Enjoy your star fruit.